Whether you're having countertops installed on a new home or you're replacing old countertops, there are some common mistakes you need to avoid for the best possible results. 

Your countertops need to be both highly functional and aesthetically pleasing in your kitchen, so you're making an important choice when you select them.

The following are six big mistakes you need to avoid to make the right choice regarding your natural stone kitchen countertops.

Choosing your countertop after other kitchen components

Your countertop should be the first thing you choose when you're selecting kitchen surfaces. There are several reasons for this. First of all, your natural stone countertop could be one of the largest investments you make in your kitchen. That means that you might want to select it first so that you can work the rest of your budget around it.

Another reason is that your countertop is going to be a prominent visual element of your kitchen that will probably stretch throughout the entire room. As such, other kitchen components you select will need to match up with it well.

Choosing a less attractive countertop material because you think your favorite won't be durable

Most natural stone countertop materials will stand up well over time. It's not worth it over the long run to forego a surface you love simply because another surface supposedly will last a few years longer.

With proper maintenance and careful use, you should be able to build upon the predicted lifespan of your favorite material. 

Thinking you can't mix and match countertop surfaces

You don't have to choose only one countertop material. Choosing two or more surfaces could give your kitchen greater versatility and aesthetic appeal. Multiple countertop materials are an especially good idea in larger kitchens where one material only might look monotonous. 

Not considering tile

These days, tile countertops are becoming very popular. Tile surfaces typically provide more of a selection in terms of style and color. They also contribute more texture and visually break up a countertop surface. 

Being afraid to depart from a rigid rectangular design

Consider the dimensions of your kitchen when you're laying out your countertop design. A rounded or oblong countertop might be more practical and appealing than a rigid rectangular design. This is especially true if you have a large, open area in the middle of your kitchen for an island. 

Neglecting to match up your countertop with other surfaces

Your countertop surface is an important choice you'll make in designing your new kitchen, but it's not the only choice. Aim for visual coherence by making sure your other surface selections will match up well with your counters in terms of color, texture, and more. For more information, contact companies like Earth Stone.